Places to visit in Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer, the Golden City of India, is one of the most alluring tourist destinations in Rajasthan, India. Jaisalmer is famous for its magnificent forts, enchanting palaces, havelis (mansions) and centuries old houses. Jaisalmer is also known for its exotic sand dunes and exciting camel safaris. Jaisalmer has a number of exciting tourist attractions showcasing the royal grandeur of the bygone era. The major tourist attractions in Jaisalmer include the Jaisalmer Fort, Patwon-ki-haveli, Nathmalji-ki-haveli, Salim-Singh- ki-haveli, Tazia tower, Bar Bagh and the beautiful Gadsisar Lake. Its exquisite handicrafts and colorful festivals are other major tourist attractions.

Following are some of the places to visit in Jaisalmer:

Jaisalmer Fort: The 12th century Jaisalmer Fort is one of the most formidable forts in Rajasthan, India. Perched on Trikuta hill, Jaisalmer Fort is a 250 ft tall and massive fort surrounded by a 30 ft high sandstone wall with 99 bastions, offering a spectacular sight to visitors. The Fort also houses a Jain Temple.

Jaisalmer Havelis: Once the residence of wealthy merchants, the havelis (mansions) of Jaisalmer are famous for their artistic designs and decorations. Their exclusive cutwork, yellow and red stone treatment, and the bracket-shaped decoration of peacocks, never fail to mesmerize the visitors. The Patwon-ki-Haveli, Salim-Singh-ki-Haveli and Nathmalji-ki-Haveli are major tourist attractions in Jaisalmer.

Gadsisar Sagar Lake: A famous picnic spot in the sandy city, Gadsisar Sagar Lake is among the most beautiful tourist attractions in Jaisalmer. It attracts hundreds of migratory birds during the winter season. Bara Bagh: Located on the bank of Gadsisar Sagar Lake, Bara Bagh is an oasis in the desert. The lush green garden provides much-needed relief to the local people.

Tazia Tower: The pagoda like Tazia Tower rises from the Badal Mahal (Palace of Clouds). The beautiful five-tiered tower is known for its beautifully carved balconies on each storey.

Things to Do in Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer offers a wide range of leisure options to its visitors. On tours to Jaisalmer, on can enjoy exciting and unforgettable excursions to places like the Desert National Park, famous for its fragile ecosystem and unique flora and fauna; Amar Lake (6 km) famous for summer palaces, finely hewed Jain temples, and gardens; Lodurva (16 km) famous for the ruined Jain Temple and a mythical wish-fulfilling tree; and Akal Wood Fossil Park famous for fossilized logs of trees trunks. Situated at about 42 km from Jaisalmer, Sam Sand Dunes are must visit tourist attractions near Jaisalmer. Enjoying an exciting camel safari on Sam promises to be truly an unforgettable experience. The place also offers breathtaking view of the sunrise and sunset. Another not to be missed tourist attraction in Jaisalmer is its colorful Desert Festival held in Jan-Feb every year.

Jaisalmer also offers exciting shopping experience to its visitors. On tours to Jaisalmer, you can shop for embroidered textiles and carpets, woolen pattu, carpets made from camel hair, tapestry, oil lamps, silver jewelry, finely cut antiques, old stonework, trinkets, and other souvenirs and curios.